Seabourn Quest debuts in Barcelona

Luxury cruise line the Yachts of Seabourn has launched its latest liner at a glittering ceremony in Barcelona.

The new Seabourn Quest was christened June 20 by Blythe Danner in Barcelona, ahead of its maiden voyage to Athens.

It marks the end of a significant period of expansion for top-end line Seabourn, which has raised the number of ships it operates from three to six ships in two years.

The Seabourn Quest is the final ship of the Odyssey class, a significantly larger type of ship compared to Seabourn’s previous vessels, which has won several awards since 2009.

Like the others in its class, the Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Sojourn, it features an 11,400 square foot (1,050 square meter) spa and 225 suites, 95 percent of which offer private verandas.

Suites are also fitted out with walk-in closets, iPod connectors, granite bathrooms with a bath and separate shower/twin sinks, and a bar which is stocked according to the wishes of the passenger.

Particular attention has been paid to the gastronomical offerings, with the ship offering four dining venues, including a patio grill and the open-kitchen Colonnade, along with a further six bars which serve a range of premium beverages that — somewhat uniquely — are free of charge to guests.

Seabourn Quest’s debut comes just weeks ahead of the launch of the Costa Favalosa, due to set sail July 7 following a launch on July 2 in Trieste, Italy.

It will be the largest ship flying the Italian flag, according to its operator, Costa Cruises.